How to Get Treated For ADHD in Adults
It's important to find a healthcare professional who has experience treating adults with ADHD. Many adult patients have had a history of false beginnings and other diagnoses prior to finding the right health professional who can help alleviate symptoms and assist them in making positive life changes.
Psychologists and psychiatrists are often the ones who deal with people suffering from ADHD. Based on the results of your evaluation they might prescribe medication or psychotherapy.
Diagnosis
ADHD can affect anyone of any age, and it's not unusual to not be diagnosed until the age of adulthood. This is often due to a lack of awareness of the condition among adults or due to the fact that health professionals believe a person's challenges are caused other causes, like stress, depression or addiction to drugs. Being diagnosed and treated is the first step towards gaining control over issues that can cause major issues in the workplace as well as at home relationships.
The brain of a person develops up to the age of 20. So, even though adults may have different symptoms as adolescents and children however, they may still suffer from ADHD. It's important to consult a specialist in treating ADHD for the diagnosis.
When testing adults for ADHD, doctors examine their work and personal histories to determine how the symptoms have affected them. They will also determine the extent and duration of the disorder. They'll conduct an extensive interview that includes data from the family and other independent sources. They may also conduct psychometric tests as well as standard ADHD rating scales that are determined by the clinician.
During an interview, a doctor will also look into whether other conditions may be contributing to the individual's issues. This is because comorbidities are very common in ADHD and if not treated they can cause symptoms to worsen.
An individual who's been struggling with their symptoms for a long time may feel relief at finally getting a diagnosis. They might also feel frustration because their issues were dismissed as 'laziness' or 'unwillingness in the past but this will be replaced by satisfaction that they have finally been able to be treated and live an easier life. The NHS offers a scheme known as Access to Work, which can offer practical and financial support for people who have been diagnosed with ADHD. For more information, talk to your GP or visit the website of the government. People who are self-employed or looking for employment can also avail the scheme through their private healthcare provider. Clinical trials are a method to test treatment options for various conditions such as ADHD. Talk to your GP about the benefits and potential risks of participating in one.
Treatment
Adults who suffer from ADHD struggle to function at school, at work or at home. They are more likely to have transfer and academic failures and lower incomes, more frequent job losses or transfers, greater rates of car accidents, and worse health outcomes than people without the disorder (Spencer and co-authors, 2007). They could also be suffering from depression or substance abuse.
There are a variety of treatments available for adults with ADHD. These include medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications. The use of stimulants and antidepressants can reduce hyperactivity. They are typically prescribed by a psychiatrist or other mental health expert. It could take a few trials before the right dosage and type of medication is identified. Some adults with ADHD utilize digital therapy to improve their focus and cognitive abilities. Digital games that improve attention are available, including EndeavorRx and EndeavorOTC.
Psychotherapy can help individuals develop the skills needed to cope and solve problems to manage their ADHD symptoms. This could include cognitive behavioral therapy that is focused on changing negative thought patterns to more positive ones, and interpersonal therapy which assists people in learning to communicate better with others. It can also help people with comorbid conditions, such as depression or anxiety, manage their symptoms.
A healthcare professional can determine ADHD by looking at the person as well as their family history and past medical records. They can also inquire about how the individual functions in their daily life and what challenges they are experiencing. They can also rule out other factors which can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or seizure disorders. They may recommend blood tests to determine if there are metal toxicities and certain types of nutritional deficiencies that may be associated with ADHD.
Medication
As part of an ADHD treatment program, medications are used to improve concentration, focus, and organizational abilities. The medications for ADHD help by boosting or balancing levels of chemicals in the brain that are known as neurotransmitters. The stimulants methylphenidate and amphetamine are the most common but non-stimulants such as atomoxetine as well as antidepressants can be effective.
It is essential to visit a healthcare professional who is trained in diagnosing and treating adults with ADHD to make sure your symptoms are accurately diagnosed. In addition to asking about your family history and previous medical history, your healthcare provider may also use a scale for rating behavior or invite co-workers or spouses to fill out a questionnaire rating behaviors that are common for people suffering from ADHD.
A thorough assessment will help you determine if your ADHD is mild or moderate. Adults who suffer from ADHD have more trouble with their social and work lives than children, but not everyone with this condition is suffering from serious issues. Mild symptoms occur in a small portion of your daily life, and do not hinder your performance. Moderate symptoms cause noticeable disruptions in several areas of your life and more severe symptoms can disrupt the home, work and social activities (Spencer et al 2007).
Many adults who seek treatment for ADHD are aware that their issues are the result of the disorder and not a lack or failure to try. Behavioral therapy and classes that teach time management skills and improve communication can help ease the stress of the people around you. Therapists for families and marriages who specialize in ADHD can help spouses and patients understand each other better so that they can stop blame-shifting between each other over the issues that result from the patient's inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature (Eakin et al 2004).
Mood swings can occur as the result of certain stimulant medication for ADHD. In these instances doctors may recommend a lower dosage or switch to a different drug. Patients with certain medical conditions, including bipolar disorders, Tourette's syndrome and certain kinds of heart disease, shouldn't take stimulants.
Psychotherapy
ADHD symptoms can be difficult to manage for adults particularly when they impact relationships and job performance. People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from academic failure, less income and more frequent changes in their workplace and have more difficulty driving (CDC 2017).
Adults with ADHD frequently have trouble discerning what behaviors are a normal part of life and which are signs of their condition. They may forget appointments, struggle to keep on top of work tasks and are prone to impulsive behavior. These problems can cause stress for the most forgiving spouse, parent or friend. People suffering from ADHD can improve their lives and relationships by attending classes that address these difficulties and offer counseling.
Adult ADHD is typically treated using a combination of medication psychotherapy, psychotherapy, and training. The aim of therapy with medication is to regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. These help in focusing and memory. Stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine are the most frequently used, but nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine and antidepressants may also be helpful. It takes time for medications to build up and they may cause side effects. Talk to your Mercy doctor to discuss the risks and benefits of taking any medication.
Psychotherapy involves talking with a professional counselor to explore emotional issues and create healthier ways of thinking. For treat adhd without medication adults with ADHD, these therapies can be extremely beneficial since they can teach them how to manage and cope. They also offer tools and changes to your environment that aid you to follow a routine and complete tasks. These accommodations are sometimes described as "adaptations" and can assist people with ADHD be more successful at home and at work.
It is important to choose an experienced therapist treating adults with ADHD. Someone who specializes in this area will be knowledgeable about the most recent research and treatment strategies. They should also be able conduct an ADHD evaluation and give an appropriate prescription for medication. In addition, you must be aware that some medications used to treat common health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can interact with stimulants.